The Good Portion

“…Jesus entered a village. And a woman named Martha welcomed Him into her house. And she had a sister called Mary, who sat at the Lord’s feet and listened to His teaching. But Martha was distracted with much serving. And she went up to Him and said, ‘Lord, do You not care that my sister has left me to serve alone? Tell her then to help me.’ But the Lord answered her, ‘Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things, but one thing is necessary. Mary has chosen the good portion, which will not be taken away from her.’” Luke 10:38-42 (ESV)
 
     This week presented many challenges. Back spasms, nose sniffles, and headaches headlined. But of paramount warred distractions. My own worst enemy, self-induced pressure also bore weight upon my shoulders. The end result? Stolen joy and adverted focus.

    Amidst my strivings, I returned to my study in Luke. As I read through this passage, the image of Mary sitting at the feet of Jesus stirred my conscience. Here, amidst the hustle and bustle, Mary made a different choice than Martha. Rather than be consumed by worries or distractions, Mary chose to be present with Jesus and soak in His Word. She chose the Good Portion.
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    What about us? Like Martha and Mary, we are faced with a choice. Either we allow stressors and troubles to consume our focus or we can choose Jesus as our Good Portion. For when Jesus is our portion, our focus becomes not the worries but Jesus, Himself. Everything else pales in comparison. For He is more than enough. He is our portion and strength who will always remain with us in every circumstance. An ever-present joy and light amidst the darkness. And He is good. Are you choosing the Good Portion?